What To Do with an Old Treadmill?
Treadmills are expensive fitness machines, and just because one no longer serves its original purpose doesn’t mean it’s completely useless. Whether your treadmill is slightly worn, broken, or just no longer needed, there are several creative, profitable, and environmentally responsible ways to give it new life.
Let’s explore all your options — from reusing, selling, and donating to dismantling and recycling — so you don’t have to throw it out.
Repurpose the Treadmill into Something Useful
Make a Treadmill Desk
Why not turn your treadmill into a walking workstation? Mount a sturdy desk surface above the treadmill base and use it to walk while working, reading, or watching videos. This helps you stay active even during long work hours.
Create a Dog Treadmill
Your pet can benefit from exercise, too! Turn off the power, supervise your dog, and use the treadmill as a manual dog walker, especially helpful if you don’t have a backyard or live in a cold climate.
Treadmill Swing or Hanging Chair
Get creative — you can suspend the treadmill frame and build a swing or a hanging seat. It’s a fun, upcycled way to reuse treadmill parts, especially if you enjoy DIY furniture projects.
Build Custom Furniture
Use the treadmill frame and supports to construct tables, desks, benches, or an entertainment unit. The heavy-duty metal and supportive structure make it a great base for strong furniture.
Sculpture or Art Piece
If you’re artistic, incorporate the belt or console into interactive or kinetic art. Treadmills can provide gears, motors, and moving parts perfect for a unique art installation.
Children’s Play Fort
Lay the treadmills on its side and use the frame and belt to build a playhouse or fort for children. Just remove the electronics and sharp parts to make it safe for kids.
Make Fitness Fun Again
Try Treadmill Racing
If the treadmill still works, set up a fun family racing game. Two treadmills side-by-side can be a hilarious way to host indoor races.
Sell the Treadmill for Extra Cash
Online Marketplaces
If the treadmill is still functional or repairable, consider selling it on:
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Facebook Marketplace
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Craigslist
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OfferUp
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eBay (for parts)
Be honest about the condition, brand, model, and any issues. Include clear pictures, especially if the screen or motor is working.
What Makes an Old Treadmill Valuable?
Brand Name Recognition
Brands like NordicTrack, Pro Form, or Sole Fitness tend to keep value because buyers trust them.
Sturdy Frame
A steel frame (rather than plastic or aluminum) indicates a higher-quality treadmill that will last longer.
Powerful Motor
A 2.5 HP or higher motor has better resale value, especially for runners or athletes.
Advanced Console Features
Touchscreens, built-in workout programs, heart rate sensors, and Bluetooth connectivity all add resale appeal.
Foldable Design
Compact, foldable treadmills are preferred for small homes and apartments.
Working Electronics
If the console, buttons, and safety features still work, highlight that in your listing.
Maintenance History
Treadmills that have been cleaned, lubricated, and maintained are more attractive to buyers.
Donate to a Good Cause
Charities, churches, and local community centers sometimes accept used fitness equipment. Call ahead to check their requirements. Even if it needs a bit of repair, they might still take it if it’s functional.
You’re not only saving it from the landfill, but also helping others in need get healthier.
Recycle the Parts
If your treadmill is beyond repair, don’t just leave it at the curb.
Recyclable Treadmill Parts
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Metal Frame – Steel or aluminum can be taken to a local scrap yard.
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Electric Motor – Valuable for scrap or replacement.
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Plastic Components – May be recyclable depending on your city’s policy.
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Electronics – Screens, wires, and PCBs may need e-waste recycling.
Check with your local recycling center. Some may require you to disassemble the treadmill before drop-off.
Use It for Parts
You can salvage many components for personal use or resale.
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Motors and belts – Useful for other treadmills or DIY machines.
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Rollers and bearings – These can be expensive replacement parts.
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Control panels and screens – Sell them online if they still function.
Sometimes, the parts are worth more than the whole treadmill!
Turn It into a DIY Project
Get creative and take on a DIY repurposing project. A few popular ideas include:
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Standing desk conversion
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Motorized conveyor belt
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Garden compost turner
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Treadmill-powered bike stand
There are hundreds of repurposing guides online. All you need is a bit of creativity, some tools, and motivation!
Let Kids Burn Energy
If the treadmill no longer powers on, remove the motor and use it as a manual treadmill for kids. Supervise them to ensure safety and remove any sharp or exposed parts.
Dispose of It Properly
If all else fails and the treadmill can’t be fixed, repurposed, or given away, ensure you dispose of it properly.
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Contact your local recycling center
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Ask about bulk waste pickup
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Look for electronics or large item drop-off events in your area
Never leave it on the roadside or in a landfill without checking local laws first.
Final Thoughts
An old treadmill may no longer help you break a sweat, but it can still serve a purpose. Whether you repurpose it into a dog treadmill, desk, or art project, sell it online, donate it to someone in need, or recycle its parts — there are many ways to extend its usefulness.
Before throwing out a treadmill, ask yourself: Can someone else use it? Can I remake it into something new?
Related Questions
How To Use NordicTrack in Manual Mode?
To use NordicTrack manually, press the “Start” button without selecting a program. Adjust speed and incline manually using the up/down buttons.
Is Limmu Emu Running on the Treadmill?
Limmu Emu is a fictional character and not known to run on treadmills, but the commercial might say otherwise!
How Tight Should a Treadmill Belt Be?
When pressing down in the middle, the belt should lift about 2-3 inches. If it feels too loose or slips, adjust the rear bolts slightly.
What Is an Effective Incline on a Treadmill?
A 1% incline simulates outdoor flat road running. For more challenge, use 3–6% incline to mimic hilly terrain.